Sunset Beach, NC
The Town of Sunset Beach mainland side of the Intracoastal Waterway. Currently growing at a terrific rate with new residential has a bustling commercial district and several residential communities on the opportunities and businesses all the time. One of the most interesting developments is in the center of town and deemed “work/live” town homes. There are a number of business people taking advantage of being able to have a business on the ground floor and live above in “retro” style. The community is attractive with its brick faced homes and lovely landscaping.
One attraction in the town is the Ingram Planetarium. It is the only one for 160 miles and is active year round with lots of specials for the summer vacationers including some specials on our local Sea Turtle Programs. The island is an annual nesting site for the endangered Loggerhead Sea Turtle. Locals and visitors alike spend many hours every year working to protect the nests and help the baby sea turtles return to the ocean safely.
Many visitors every year return to the island beach at Sunset Beach. The island is, of course, the pride and joy of the locals. The beach is only 3 miles long and with its wide expanse of clean white sand , its fishing pier and adorable gazebo, is a great place to swim, surf, fish and relax.
The quaint but impractical swing bridge across the Intracoastal to the island has its charm and has been the subject of many artists and photographers . Currently, however, a new bridge is being constructed to replace it. Many people lament its impending doom but most will agree it is time.
There is a state bird sanctuary on the west end called Bird Island. It is 1300 acres of unspoiled beauty where many species of birds can be seen. While the island was literally separated by a channel in the past, a hurricane in the early 90’s filled in the inlet and it now presents a very broad and long stretch of dunes for the avid beach walkers.
Sunset Beach has no commercial businesses to speak of. There are no high rise buildings, no hotels or resorts and no restaurants. You’ll find a small general store or two selling tee shirts, ice, cold drinks and beach paraphernalia. There are some rentals available, bikes, surf boards, kayaks, etc. and a video game or two. Otherwise, everyone must go to the mainland to shop and eat or play golf. Twin Lakes and Crabby Oddwaters are wonderful waterfront seafood restaurants on the mainland. Both Mexican and Chinese food can be found in the shopping Village and, of course, everyone finds their way to Calabash.
If you are looking for a low key, quiet family beach where you can get back to nature and back in touch, this is it. Most of us locals would rather keep it a secret! However, among the neighborhoods you’ll find there are Sea Trail, Sandpiper Bay, Sunset Ridge, Jaguar’s Lair, The Pearl, Oyster Bay and the beautiful Twin Lakes area with it’s fabulous views and many homes along the Waterway. Just another bit of Paradise in Brunswick County, NC!!
